Are you finding it challenging to keep up with your energy bills in California? San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) understands these struggles and offers a solution through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program. This initiative is designed to provide significant discounts on your energy bills, making it easier for eligible low-income households to manage their essential expenses. If you’re looking for ways to reduce your utility costs, especially to free up funds for car maintenance and repairs, understanding the SDG&E CARE program and its benefits is a crucial first step.
Understanding the SDG&E CARE Program
The SDG&E CARE program is a state-mandated initiative that offers substantial discounts to qualifying customers. Enrolling in CARE can lead to a 30-35 percent discount on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. These savings can make a real difference in your monthly budget, providing much-needed financial relief. The program is funded through a surcharge on other utility customers’ bills, ensuring its sustainability and continued support for those who need it most.
This program aims to assist households struggling to afford their energy needs, ensuring access to essential utilities without causing undue financial strain. It’s particularly beneficial for families and individuals on a tight budget, allowing them to allocate their resources more effectively.
Eligibility for SDG&E CARE
Eligibility for the SDG&E CARE program is primarily based on household income. The program uses income thresholds that are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are as follows:
| Household Size | Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | $40,880 |
| 3 | $51,640 |
| 4 | $62,400 |
| 5 | $73,160 |
| 6 | $83,920 |
| 7 | $94,680 |
| 8 | $105,440 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 |
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are currently enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- Food Stamps/SNAP
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Tribal TANF
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically makes you eligible for the SDG&E CARE program, simplifying the application process.
How to Apply for SDG&E CARE and Get the Program Number
To apply for the SDG&E CARE program and get your or for any inquiries, the most direct route is to contact SDG&E directly. They have dedicated resources to assist you with the application process and answer any questions you might have.
You can reach SDG&E through the following channels:
- Phone: Call SDG&E’s dedicated assistance line at 800-411-7343. This is your sdg&e care program number contact point for immediate assistance and guidance.
- Website: Visit the SDG&E website for the CARE program at https://www.sdge.com/residential/pay-bill/get-payment-bill-assistance. The website provides detailed information about the program, eligibility criteria, and may offer online application options or downloadable forms.
SDG&E’s customer service representatives can provide you with the application form, guide you through the required documentation, and answer specific questions related to your situation and the sdg&e care program number if needed for application tracking.
Exploring Other Assistance Programs: FERA
For households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, there’s another valuable program to consider: the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill and has higher income thresholds than CARE.
Here’s a glimpse of the FERA income guidelines, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household | 250% of Federal Poverty Guidelines (FERA) |
|---|---|
| 3 | $64,550 |
| 4 | $78,000 |
| 5 | $91,450 |
| 6 | $104,900 |
| 7 | $118,350 |
| 8 | $131,800 |
| Each Additional Person | $13,450 |
If your income is above the CARE limits but falls within the FERA guidelines, you may be eligible for this program. Like CARE, FERA is designed to ease the energy burden for California residents. FERA is available to customers of SDG&E, Southern California Edison, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Contact your electric utility to determine your eligibility and apply.
Conclusion
Navigating energy costs can be challenging, but programs like SDG&E CARE and FERA are in place to provide crucial support. If you believe you might be eligible for the SDG&E CARE program, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact SDG&E directly at 800-411-7343 – your sdg&e care program number contact – or visit their website to explore your options and start saving on your energy bills today. These savings can contribute significantly to your financial well-being, allowing for better management of household expenses, including car maintenance and ensuring reliable transportation.
